Spanish Sergio Canales, midfielder of Rayados del Monterrey, has highlighted the progress he has made with his team in search of their first league title in Mexican football, with their placement in the finals of the Apertura 2024.
“I am very happy with my development. It was difficult for me to adapt when I arrived. I was not familiar with the league, but I saw a very competitive championship and I am happy here. This is my third tournament. This was the goal, I came as a champion and eager to lift this trophy. Gotta live,” said the former Real Madrid player.
Canales, who arrived in Mexico at Apertura 2023, spoke ahead of the first leg of the finals, in which Monterrey will visit two-time champions America this Thursday.
Born in Santander 33 years ago, on the fifth day of this tournament, the Argentinian Martin Demichelis, who arrived at Reyados last August, gave all the credit for the moment his team was enjoying.
“Martin’s messages are very good, they permeated the locker room. He brought the best result of the tournament to the team. We grew and did what was necessary for this final, he sent us the hunger to win,” he emphasized.
The former Valencia, Real Sociedad and Real Betis footballer said he was excited to play in his first final in Mexico.
“I don’t have the experience of playing in a final, learning to take that step with the team and I’m very excited. As I said, when I came to this country, it was clear that I wanted to win. I feel the responsibility to do everything to make us champions,” he concluded.
Throughout its history, Monterrey has won five league titles, the most recent of which was against the United States in the 2019 Apertura.
Monterrey will host Aguilas next Sunday for the second leg of the Apertura final, with this Thursday’s pledge fulfilled.
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